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Add to SafariWhen comparing TP-LINK HS100 vs iDevices Switch, the Slant community recommends iDevices Switch for most people. In the question“What are the best smart plugs?” iDevices Switch is ranked 7th while TP-LINK HS100 is ranked 10th. The most important reason people chose iDevices Switch is:
Most other smart switches block other outlets, however because this one is designed to sit horizontally instead of vertically, it won't block any other outlets giving you full access.
Question Ranking
Pros
Pro Schedules and timers work well
You can configure this switch to turn on and off whenever you choose. Schedules are useful for waking up in the morning and going to bed, and timers help expand that functionality to single-time usage. You can fully automate anything plugged into this switch, even when on vacation half the world away.
You can also enable 'away mode', which turns your lights on and off automatically simulating what it would look like if somebody were home. This deters burgles, as generally they try to break in when nobody is home.
Pro Works with Amazon's Alexa
Alexa is Amazon's personal assistant, found in the Echo and Echo Dot. If you have either of these products, you (or your guests) can control this switch with nothing but your voice. Very cool as a party trick, but also useful in day-to-day life.
Pro Doesn't block other outlets
Most other smart switches block other outlets, however because this one is designed to sit horizontally instead of vertically, it won't block any other outlets giving you full access.
Pro RGB nightlight adds some personalization
The bar on the front of the switch is actually a RGB light, which can be configured to any color, at varying brightness as well. It isn't the brightest, but because most plugs are near the floor it provides sufficient lighting for night-time use or can add to accent lighting for a more whole-room effect.
Pro HomeKit enabled
HomeKit is deeply integrated within the iOS ecosystem, including Siri. You can place multiple different devices into a single 'scene' and have them all activate with a singe voice action.
Pro Useful companion app
The app is laid out simply, which makes using it a pleasure. It's layout is clearly designed to put the controls - the most important part of the app - front and center.
Pro Allows information which can lead to lower energy bills
While the energy reports aren't as detailed as other switches, they are still detailed enough to show where you can save some power costs. This is a useful feature, as it can save you money in the long-run and even pay itself off.
Cons
Con Bulky
Similar to the vast majority of all smart plugs, this one will block the outlet above it. You can place it on top of a regular wall receptacle, although then it sticks out visually more than if it were centered on the wall mount.
Con Energy tracking costs extra
This specific device doesn't offer energy tracking, although a different model does. It costs $8 more, however it has the potential to save a lot more than that in electricity costs over its lifetime.
Con HomeKit only
The iDevices Switch doesn't support any other smart home systems. While not an issue if this is your first smart home product, it won't play well down the road if you purchase any Wink, WeMo, Nest, or other non-HomeKit devices.
Con iOS only
There is no Android or Windows Phone support. This could be a deal-breaker if other inhabitants of the house use an Android, Windows Phone, or BlackBerry OS device.
Con On/off only - no dimming
This switch lacks the ability to dim lights plugged into it. Dimming is not only useful to control the brightness in the room, but can also act to save electricity.
